Friday, August 15, 2008

Liverpool's Persuit Of Gareth Barry Looks Set To Collapse

Gareth Barry’S proposed move to Liverpool edged nearer to collapse after the midfielder appeared for Aston Villa in the Uefa Cup last night.

Barry started and scored in his team’s win in their qualifying first leg tie against FH Hafnarfjordur in Iceland.

The England international’s selection means he will be cup tied and unable to play for another side in Europe until the knockout stages in February.

However, Villa manager Martin O’Neill insists the latest development does not necessarily rule out a move to Liverpool for Barry.

"I wouldn’t be particularly sure until the transfer deadline passes what might materialise, so we’ll see," he said.

"But he’s our player, and he wanted to play in the game, and we think he’s mentally tuned into it, so that’s all that matters."

Barry has been a target for Liverpool all summer and lost the captaincy for criticising Villa manager O’Neill’s handling of the move.

Liverpool manager Rafael Benitez had previously made no secret of his desire to sign the 27-year-old.

But chief executive Rick Parry revealed over the weekend that the club’s hierarchy regard Villa’s £18m valuation as "too high".

Barry has been desperate for a move to Anfield, with Liverpool having first lodged a bid back in May.

However, increasingly strained dealings between the clubs have cast doubt over the transfer, with last night’s developments further threatening Liverpool’s current interest in the player.

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